GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 14521 Northwest Blvd. … · 14521 Northwest Blvd. Corpus Christi, TX...
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Non-Profit Organization U. S. Postage PAID Corpus Christi, TX Permit No. 690 GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 14521 Northwest Blvd. Corpus Christi, Texas 78410-5501 Address Service Requested Grace United Methodist Church 14521 Northwest Blvd. Corpus Christi, TX 78410 361.933.0109 www.ccgrace.org PORTERFIELD’S PASTORAL PONDERINGS One of my favorite games as a kid was Red Rover; you know the game - kids hold hands or lock arms and try to prevent another person from running and breaking their line. Generally, the winning team understood momentum. It took momentum to break the other team’s line. To keep your line together you had to 'zap' the momentum of the others. To 'zap' the momentum of the runner your line had to flex around the runner. No momentum, no line breaks. I can still remember saying 'Ready or not here I come' knowing that I would aim for the part of the line that did not understand momentum. Each new year carries with it the momentum of the past. There is also a momentum to the newness of the New Year that might help us to overcome the past momentum. The New Year is a great time to begin something long put off: or, a great time to finally stop some life draining habit by catching the momentum. The scriptures are full of the momentum (rhythms) of creation. These rhythms or habits God draws us to, are designed to help us become the creatures God created us to be. They provide us foundation in an ever-changing world. Working 6 days and then resting - honoring the Sabbath - is one of the basics. Without down time to worship God we slowly lose momentum. Another rhythm is the Jubilee year (Leviticus 25). Every 50th year debts were forgiven, servants were released from obligation, and the land was not tilled. The Jubilee came at the end of seven periods of seven years. At the end of each seventh year was a 'Sabbatical Year' which had similar 'releases' as the Jubilee. The Ten Commandments, The Golden Rule, The Sermon on the Mount are also about the rhythms of God’s created order. Are there rhythms (habits) in your life that need to shift to be in sync with the rhythms of God’s created order? Has something been gnawing at you for a long time: you know you need to address it but you keep putting it off? Does the momentum of the past seem overwhelming? Perhaps the New Year will be a time to shift the momentum to the good. Years ago, I was putting off making the jump in the technology world to texting. I had a flip phone and had to punch a button three times just to input a ‘c’. Remember flip phones?? I didn’t want to learn another ‘new thing’, but texting was the language of connection with my daughters. I needed to learn a new language. It has been a blessing. As a kid, I remember the elders in my life disconnecting from the family unwilling to embrace something new. First, I remember it was Television, then the Microwave, then cordless telephones, then power windows in cars,… etc. Their choices isolated them and they seemed more depressed and frustrated as the world moved on while they desired things to stay the same. I am now in that place of my elders. I want the momentum of the world to stop. I don’t want the newest thing, I want people to stick with what is, what I am already used to. But I know if I don’t embrace change, I invite the isolation and frustration I have seen in the past. God’s design and desire for our species involves change: particularly getting rid of things that are barriers. What is God nudging you about that needs to happen in 2020? That nudging is part of God’s rhythm and momentum. I hope 2020 finds you dancing anew to God’s rhythms. Shalom, Mark
Transcript of GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 14521 Northwest Blvd. … · 14521 Northwest Blvd. Corpus Christi, TX...
Non-Profit Organization
U. S. Postage PAID
Corpus Christi, TX
Permit No. 690
GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 14521 Northwest Blvd. Corpus Christi, Texas 78410-5501
Address Service Requested
Grace United Methodist Church
14521 Northwest Blvd. Corpus Christi, TX 78410
361.933.0109 www.ccgrace.org
PORTERFIELD’S PASTORAL PONDERINGS
One of my favorite games as a kid was Red Rover; you know the game - kids hold hands or lock arms and try to prevent another person from running and breaking their line. Generally, the winning team understood momentum. It took momentum to break the other team’s line. To keep your line together you had to 'zap' the momentum of the others. To 'zap' the momentum of the runner your line had to flex around the runner. No momentum, no line breaks. I can still remember saying 'Ready or not here I come' knowing that I would aim for the part of the line that did not understand momentum. Each new year carries with it the momentum of the past. There is also a momentum to the newness of the New Year that might help us to overcome the past momentum. The New Year is a great time to begin something long put off: or, a great time to finally stop some life draining habit by catching the momentum. The scriptures are full of the momentum (rhythms) of creation. These rhythms or habits God draws us to, are designed to help us become the creatures God created us to be. They provide us foundation in an ever-changing world. Working 6 days and then resting - honoring the Sabbath - is one of the basics. Without down time to worship God we slowly lose momentum. Another rhythm is the Jubilee year (Leviticus 25). Every 50th year debts were forgiven, servants were released from obligation, and the land was not tilled. The Jubilee came at the end of seven periods of seven years. At the end of each seventh year was a 'Sabbatical Year' which had similar 'releases' as the Jubilee. The Ten Commandments, The Golden Rule, The Sermon on the Mount are also about the rhythms of God’s created order. Are there rhythms (habits) in your life that need to shift to be in sync with the rhythms of God’s created order? Has something been gnawing at you for a long time: you know you need to address it but you keep putting it off? Does the momentum of the past seem overwhelming? Perhaps the New Year will be a time to shift the momentum to the good. Years ago, I was putting off making the jump in the technology world to texting. I had a flip phone and had to punch a button three times just to input a ‘c’. Remember flip phones?? I didn’t want to learn another ‘new thing’, but texting was the language of connection with my daughters. I needed to learn a new language. It has been a blessing. As a kid, I remember the elders in my life disconnecting from the family unwilling to embrace something new. First, I remember it was Television, then the Microwave, then cordless telephones, then power windows in cars,… etc. Their choices isolated them and they seemed more depressed and frustrated as the world moved on while they desired things to stay the same. I am now in that place of my elders. I want the momentum of the world to stop. I don’t want the newest thing, I want people to stick with what is, what I am already used to. But I know if I don’t embrace change, I invite the isolation and frustration I have seen in the past. God’s design and desire for our species involves change: particularly getting rid of things that are barriers. What is God nudging you about that needs to happen in 2020? That nudging is part of God’s rhythm and momentum. I hope 2020 finds you dancing anew to God’s rhythms.
Shalom, Mark
January 2020 Altar Rail Offerings will go to support Prison Ministry
Church Office: Main: 361.933.0109 fax: 361.933.0154
Pastors: Reverend Mark Porterfield ext 205
Cell: 512.657.0405
Reverend Rebekah Rochte ext 204
Cell: 540.288.7141
Director of Youth Ministry: Victoria Low ext 203
Director of Children’s Ministry: Debbie Shannon ext 206
Director of Communication: Kristen Veit ext 200
Office Manager: Kathy Rios ext 202
Property Manager: Jon Borhauer Cell: 361.548.7638
Financial Secretary: Cathy Chaloupka ext 221
Director of Music Ministries: Michael Perez
Pianist: Natalie Rumfield [email protected]
Wesley Counselor: Erica Garcia
Cell: 361.658.9708
Wesley Nurse: Laura Rivas
For Appointment: 361-933-0109
FINANCIAL REPORT THROUGH November 30, 2019
November Received for Ministries -
$66,663.50
Invested in Ministries - $61,884.63
YEAR TO DATE
Received for Ministries - $727,978.20
Invested in Ministries - $716,090.37
14521 Northwest Blvd TMF Loan
Balance January 1, 2019 - $1,498,128.69
Year-to-date Payments $136,333.92
Balance November 30th - $1,361,794.77
Expanding the Mission
Received Year-to-date $131,366.17
Year-to-date Payments $124,624.47
November 2019
Visitors
Debra Coleman
Courtney Humphreys
Cesar M. Garcia
Terri Mashburn
Average October
Worship 8:50 140
11:15 127
Nursery 8
Small Groups (Sunday School)
Average 88
A Moment in Time #65
In 1972, Art Buchwald, a columnist for the Los Angeles Times, wrote a satirical column entitled, “Should Churches Be Open on Christmas Day?” It was one of those things that poke fun at the commercialism of Christmas. How simple it is to lose sight of the meaning and purpose of the day which we will soon celebrate. Many will be away for the holiday visiting loved ones---but please take your “Sunday-Go-To-Meeting” clothes with you and plan to worship wherever you are. And you who have company coming here---drop them a line today to remind them that your church will have Christmas Eve services. Invite them to plan to worship with your family in your church. They will appreciate your invitation, and Christmas will be made richer for everyone involved. You have worked hard getting ready for Christmas. Now that it is almost here, wont you share in the very special times of worship and fellowship which present themselves? We want and need you with us as we gather as the Family of Christ to worship. Mary Lutz
Historian
Happy New Year one and all!!! Let’s help put smiles on the faces of some of our less fortunate neighbors in the community. Now is the time to clean out some of those closets and find some treasures that you no longer need. Others would really appreciate them especially items of clothing that are cozy and warm. Coats, jackets, and sweaters are especially needed.
2019 was a very successful year at the Thrift Shoppe. We want to thank each of you for your contributions as well as the contribution of time, effort, and LOVE from all our volunteers.
We couldn’t do it without YOU!!!!
Adult Ministries
The Young at Heart group is still collecting and recycling #5 Medicine Bottles as an outreach project with Matthew 25: Ministries.
Please continue bringing your empty medicine bottles to recycle. This mission project for Mathew 25: Ministries is full-filling the needs of those who don’t have access to medicine bottles. Thanks to all who participate.
Missions and Outreach
We continue to be Christ’s hands and feet in the world! There are so many opportunities to volunteer, donate, or otherwise change the world! Whether you’re interested in an ongoing project or have an idea for a new one, contact Pastor Rebekah ([email protected], 540-288-7141) or Pam Fordtran ([email protected], 361-537-3979) to get started.
Serve
Feed Our Friends: Help us make PB&J sandwiches, assemble sack lunches, donate food items, or volunteer to serve the hungry in Artesian Park! Join us on 2nd Sundays every month. Food Bank Distribution: We have grown! Help us distribute food to over 100 families on 2nd Wednesdays (9-11 AM) at the Thrift Shoppe or 4th Fridays (1-3 PM) at Oak Park! You can also donate canned meats and beans to supplement our supplies.
Donate
Funding: From grocery/gas gift cards to food to hygiene items and more, monetary donations help us accomplish the mission of changing lives. Food items: We support several feeding programs, and are always in need of supplies like peanut butter, jelly, canned foods, healthy snacks, etc. Supply Drives: We regularly set out collection bins throughout the year for things like school supplies, coats, backpacks, and more, so keep an eye out for how you can help!
UMW NEWS
UMW wishes you a Happy New Year!!
Congratulations to Victoria Low and Debbie Shannon recipients of Special Recognition pins from UMW.
They give their all to the children and youth programs at Grace. A monetary contribution has been made to the United Methodist Church in their honor to provide funding for children and women ministries.
Congratulations and thank you for what you do!
JOY Circle meets on Wednesday evening, January 8, 2020, at 6:30 PM in Room 136-137. Join us for food and fellowship followed by the Pledge Service presented by Zula Langley.
HOPE Circle meets on January 21, 2020 at 9:15 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Join us for refreshments followed by the Pledge Service and a special skit on the World Community. Hope to see you there!!!
Office Volunteers Needed
We are looking for volunteers to help for 3 1/2 hours, once a week to answer the phone and greet guests at the receptionist desk. That’s right only 3 1/2 hours! There are not many time slots open so call and volunteer today! Time slots include Monday 12:30-4:00 PM, and Thursdays 9:00 AM-12:30 PM and 12:30-4:00 PM. Contact the Church Office at 361-933-0109 and ask for Kathy Rios.
White Socks and Dental Hygiene Products Drive
We are collecting new white socks and travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste in coordination with the Homeless Issues Partnership. These items will be offered to persons in need during the Partnership's yearly survey later this month. Please bring all donations by Sunday, January 19.
“Did You Know…”
1. Our Wesley Nurse, Laura Rivas, is looking for people interested in creating a health ministry team. If you are interested, please contact Laura at 361-933-0109.
2. 4 Youth traveled to Gruene, TX to help participate in Home in a Week.
3. The Seekers class donated new Christmas decorations to the church.
4. 15 people helped decorate the church for Advent.
5. The Gardening team received donations from the United Methodist Women.
6. We are currently troubleshooting the outside digital sign. It will be back on as soon as possible.
7. We are in need of a set-up and tear-down team to help with events in the church. If you are interested in becoming a set-up/tear-down team member or are interested in starting a team of people to help, please let the Church Office know.
8. 80 women attended the Women’s Advent by Candlelight service.
9. Breakfast with Santa had a large turn-out. Thank you to everyone who helped make it a success!
10. Wednesday Night Live starts back up on January 22nd!
11. It was reported that the United Methodist Church had split. You might have heard something that isn’t quite accurate about the state of the UMC. Follow this link for accurate news about what is and isn’t happening. https://www.umnews.org/en/news/diverse-leaders-group-offers-
separation-plan
“Souper” Bowl Sunday
February 2
Our annual missions fundraiser and soup-making competition is approaching! If your small group would like to enter a soup, contact Kathy Borhauer no later than January 31. On the day of the event, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase voting tokens or bring donations for extra tokens!) to support your favorite entries. Prizes will be awarded by popular vote. Let’s enjoy fellowship and raise money for mission work in our community and beyond!
Girl Scout Cookies for Sale
Girl scouts will be selling cookies on January 26th. All Girl Scouts that call Grace UMC home are invited to take part. Contact Sonya Durrwachter at 361-726-2149 or email [email protected] for more info.
Making Peace with your Past
Starting Wednesday, February 5, from 4:30-
6:00 PM join Erica T. Garcia, PhD, LPC, and Laura Rivas, MSN, RN, Wesley Nurse for Methodist Healthcare Ministries for a 13-week support group based on the book “Making Peace with Your Past: Help for Adult Children of Dysfunctional Families” by Tim Sledge. Books and study materials to be provided by Methodist Healthcare Ministries. Meetings will be held at Grace UMC. Preregistration is required, and spots are limited. Participants must be able to attend all weekly group sessions from February 5 through April 29. For more information call 361-658-9708.
Consecration Sunday
Please Mark your calendar and plan on being in worship for Consecration Sunday February 9th. This is the time of the year when we will dedicate ourselves to God through our finances.
Dear Friends,
The story of our faith begins in this way: “In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth…” (Genesis 1:1 NRSV). I love this account of creation for many reasons, but one reason concerns the wonderful complexity of translation and the effect it can have on interpretation. One of the beautiful things about language is that words can have many different meanings. When the texts of the Bible are translated from Hebrew and Greek into English, sometimes the translators have to pick just one of those many meanings in order for a word to make sense in English. That’s why I highly recommend having at least two different translations of the Bible (I like the NRSV and the NIV) so you can see how choosing a different translation for a word or phrase can nuance our interpretation. I also encourage you to check out an interlinear Bible (biblehub.com is a great resource) and take the time to click on important words and see what they mean in their original language. Linguistics, translation, and interpretation can be complex, and context always matters, but it can be helpful to know a little more about the meanings that may lie beneath what seems like a very simple word in English.
One word in Genesis 1:1 helps me imagine God’s work in the world. The word “create” in Hebrew is bara’. Bara’ means to shape, fashion, or create, and almost always refers to divine, not human, action. It may be a borrowed word from other Near Eastern languages where cognates also mean to create, but specifically through either building up or shaping via cutting or paring down. We tend to think about the start of creation a little differently today, but in the ancient world, there was this idea that creation wasn’t making something out of nothing; rather, creation happened through order, boundaries, and naming things. That’s God’s creative activity reflected in Genesis 1 – establishing the bounds of the heavens and the earth, holding back the primordial waters, setting in place the inhabitants of various biomes, giving names to the night and day and humans and other entities, and so on. But bara’ is also used in other places in the Bible to talk about God’s creative work in different ways. Bara’ can also have a sense of choosing, transformation, rebirth, or bringing about new conditions. Think about Psalm 51:12, “Create in me a clean heart” – God’s creative work isn’t a one-and-done event, but an ongoing process! God is still creating today!
Especially at the start of a new year, I love this image of God creating new things, reestablishing order, bringing chaos to heel. When I think about God as Creator, two images that come to mind are a potter and a woodworker. In both cases, there is a sense of shaping, molding, seeing the beautiful potential in the raw materials and drawing it out. In the traditional service, we often sing the hymn “Spirit of the Living God,” which includes the lines “Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me.” What if that is our prayer in this new year? What if we look for God’s ongoing creative work in our hearts, our lives, and the wider world? In this new year, what new creation is God calling forth in you? Do you perceive the new things that are springing up all around you? How might you participate in that wonderful work of creation?
For those of you who enjoy reading, an excellent recourse is Jon D. Levenson’s Creation and the Persistence of Evil. Even though modern science and philosophy gives us a different understanding of the world from how our ancient ancestors saw things, this book explores the Genesis 1 account in light of that ancient worldview and ponders the intersecting implications of creation, divinity, humanity, and suffering. It’s academically rigorous but very easy to read; let me know if you’d like to borrow my copy!
May you experience new creation in this new year!
Yours in Christ,
Revolution Youth WNL…starts Wednesday, January 22!!!! It is a great place to connect with other students and hear biblical teachings on issues students face. Join us from 6:00-8:00 PM. There is a meal provided and a donation of $3.00 per person is accepted to cover the cost of food.
Revolution Youth Uprising…
Sunday morning from 10:00 – 11:00 AM
The bible is filled with stories of miracles and inspiration, but it wrestles with stories of pain and loss. This month, the youth will be digging into the story of God that we find in the Bible.
Revolution Youth Outreach…
The first and third Sunday of each month from 12:30-3:00 PM will be youth lunch and service project. The youth are challenged during this time to grow closer to God and make a difference in the world around them.
Mark your Calendar for January
3-4 Confirmation Retreat at Camp Zephyr 5 Uprising (Sunday School): Big Dreams-Romans 13:1
18-20 Home in a Week Mission Trip to the Valley
19 Uprising: Big Dreams – 1 Kings 3:3-14
22 Revolution Youth Homework and Tutorials 4:30 – 6:00 PM Room 135
22 WNL Revolution Youth (Sincerely, God) 6:00–8:00 PM
24 Midwinter Youth Retreat at Camp Zephyr 26 Uprising: Big Dreams – Daniel 2:1-49
29 WNL Revolution Youth (Sincerely, God)
Memories...
Grace Kids are collecting pop tabs to donate to the Ronald McDonald House
Charities of Corpus Christi
Collecting and donating pop tabs is an easy way for people of all ages to support
the Ronald McDonald House!
It's easy...just save your pop tabs. Once you have collected enough, drop
them off in the children's area in a Ziploc bag.
Sharing Books...Bringing People Together... Creating a Community of Readers
Located in the Children's Area of Grace UMC
The Little Free Library doesn’t just belong to us, it belongs to the whole church community. It’s our hope that this Little Free Library will bring a little more joy, a little more connection, and a whole lot more books to our community.
Here’s how it works! • We initially stock the Little Free Library with a variety of books • You stop by and take whatever catches your eye
• You bring books to contribute when you can
Wednesday Night Live 6-8pm
Kinder-5th grade Dinner, Activities, Games,
Music, Lessons, and FUN!!!
Begins January 22nd
